Top 5 remedies for osteoarthritis

The most commonly used remedies to treat osteoarthritis are analgesics and anti-inflammatories, which can be taken orally, such as paracetamol or diclofenac, or used in the form of an ointment, such as capsaicin, as they help alleviate the symptoms of pain and swelling in the joints. , improving quality of life.

However, the doctor may also recommend the use of medicines that help lubricate and rebuild the cartilage in the joints, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, as they act as natural anti-inflammatories, helping to reduce pain and inflammation gradually over time. .

The treatment of osteoarthritis should always be guided by a doctor, with individualized doses, as they can cause side effects such as gastric ulcers or kidney failure, for example. In addition, the doctor can also recommend physiotherapy treatment to help improve movement and strengthen the joint. Find out how physiotherapy for osteoarthritis is done.

The main remedies used to treat osteoarthritis are:

1. Painkillers

Paracetamol (Tylenol) is the main analgesic used to relieve osteoarthritis pain, and the total dose per day should be a maximum of 4000 mg, according to medical advice, and is generally sufficient to allow daily activities to be carried out. This medication must be prescribed by a doctor and used according to the intensity of each person’s symptoms.

Opioids, such as codeine (Codein) and tramadol (Tramal), for example, are more powerful analgesics, used in cases where the pain is very intense or does not improve with common analgesics. The stronger version of opioids, such as morphine, oxycodone and methadone, for example, are also an option for people who suffer from very intense and limiting pain.

There are also combinations of paracetamol with opioids, which can also be used under medical supervision, such as the Tylex medicine, with paracetamol and codeine, and the Ultracet medicine, with paracetamol and tramadol.

2. Anti-inflammatories

Anti-inflammatory medications such as diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), ibuprofen (Alivium) or naproxen (Flanax), for example, which can be taken in pill or injection form, are options to use in times of crisis, only with prescription doctor, this is because, if used too frequently, they can cause side effects, such as gastric ulcers or kidney failure.

3. Glucosamine and chondroitin

Cartilage supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin (Condroflex) are used to help regenerate and maintain joint elasticity and lubrication, with good results in some people. Understand better what it is for and when glucosamine and chondroitin are indicated.

4. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone (Meticorten), may be options in some cases of constant pain associated with chronic inflammation, and should only be used under medical supervision. Corticosteroids can also be injected directly into the joints by the doctor, every 3 to 6 months, helping to control inflammation and pain there.

Another injectable treatment option is hyaluronic acid, which helps reduce pain and improve joint mobility.

5. Ointments

Topical medications, such as anti-inflammatory ointments or capsaicin, are options to apply to the inflamed area, helping to reduce pain and discomfort, and can be used 3 to 4 times a day, for up to about 20 days, under medical guidance. which can avoid or reduce the need for the use of oral medications.

As a last resort, when symptoms are very intense and do not improve with remedies and natural treatments, it may be necessary to undergo surgery, which can remove inflamed parts or replace damaged cartilage. Learn more about other treatment options for osteoarthritis.